Designer Patio Furniture Bloghttp://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca
- By Velago Patio FurnitureWed, 11 Mar 2015 00:57:17 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=4.1.1How do I fix a Dent in the Frame of my Wicker Outdoor Furniture?http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2015/02/23/fix-dent-frame-outdoor-furniture/
http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2015/02/23/fix-dent-frame-outdoor-furniture/#commentsMon, 23 Feb 2015 23:01:05 +0000http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/?p=1162As a trendy person, you have long jumped the bandwagon of modern design wicker furniture. You love the style and enjoy many nice evenings on your patio with friends and family. Every spring you carry the patio set from the … Continue reading →

As a trendy person, you have long jumped the bandwagon of modern design wicker furniture. You love the style and enjoy many nice evenings on your patio with friends and family. Every spring you carry the patio set from the garage to the garden, a great feeling that marks the start of the patio season.

You are tough, Canadian after all. You leave your car in the driveway all winter, no need to have it in the garage; too much stuff in there anyway. This winter however, this one specific day, temperatures were really going to tank. The car should just stay in there for the night, just this once. Ok, maybe until it warms up from -20 to -10. You made some space in the garage, juuust enough to fit the car. But, oooops, pulled in a bit too far. Now the beautiful patio furniture is dented!

Obviously, there are more common reasons for a dent in an outdoor sofa or seat. But this one story still amuses me.

The video below shows you, how to bend back a dent in an aluminum frame, which is the most common construction on wicker patio furniture. You may want to double check, the material of your frame. Dents in steel for example are almost impossible to bend back. Aluminum is different, the material has much more flexibility. In most cases, you can bend it back without impacting the stability of the frame.

The trick is to have a bit of space to bend the dented part into the other direction. In the video, we are propping up the frame, so it stands off the ground 2 inches. Just enough to bend the frame the other way with 2-3 pumping motions. Always make sure to put the furniture on a cardboard box or blanket, so you don’t scratch the downward facing side of the piece.

]]>http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2015/02/23/fix-dent-frame-outdoor-furniture/feed/1Latest Modern Patio Furniture Designhttp://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/10/02/latest-modern-patio-furniture-design/
http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/10/02/latest-modern-patio-furniture-design/#commentsThu, 02 Oct 2014 20:58:36 +0000http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/?p=1151Velago has just recently introduced the Crema as a new set to the collection of outdoor furniture. The sleek white wicker sofa set comes with stainless steel legs providing for a unique look. Complemented with grey outdoor cushions, it is … Continue reading →

]]>Velago has just recently introduced the Crema as a new set to the collection of outdoor furniture. The sleek white wicker sofa set comes with stainless steel legs providing for a unique look. Complemented with grey outdoor cushions, it is sure to attract neighbourly eyeballs en-masse.

The Crema combines all the advantages of well built modern patio furniture. The sturdyness and cool trendy look of stainless steel. The white-is-the-new-black resin wicker, that brings elegance and durability. A grey tone cannot be missing if you want to make a style statement. The cushion fabric picks that up. It feels soft, exactly what you are used to from indoors, but still has all the features needed outside. It is UV resistant and treated with a water repellent coating.

If you are hesitant having white furniture outside, thinking of how fast it will get dirty, consider this. Once you remove the cushions, you are good to go at it with your garden hose! It cleans fast and quite frankly, it does not get dirty that fast, unless you have a huge amount of trees in your backyard. There is also the option of covering the set with a tarp or a custom furniture cover when not in use. That will keep the cleaning to a minimum.

You can find more information on the Crema here. Also browse other Velago Patio Furniture products at great sale prices.

The designer outdoor entertainment area doesn’t have to just be a dream that you hanker after. Transform your outdoor area with these tips that will turn your patio/garden area/balcony/gazebo into a comfortable space akin to those enviable examples straight out of décor magazines.

Size really does not matter; you can easily add character to any space with the right chairs, lighting and accessories, regardless of how big or small. Perhaps you would like the outside space to be an extension of your interior design, or maybe you would like your outdoor area to be a reflection of your ultimate getaway. Your outdoor area can become your oyster with a bit of planning and a few décor additions.

Once you have an idea of what you want to do, you should ideally put the specifications down on paper, with the correct dimensions; this exercise helps you determine if there is sufficient space for particular additions such as an outside grill and where best to place everything.

Pergola

If you live in the city and have your own balcony, privacy is a highly expensive commodity. Consider a pergola or a half trellis as a means of creating your own outside domain. Trellises and pergolas not only offer privacy, but also afford a shady area in those hot summer months. What’s more, they are perfect supports for creepers, thereby creating a garden effect that breaks the monotony of the concrete.

Add several tall plants in lovely pots, a side bench created from planks of wood, throw in several scatter cushions and you have irrefutably transformed your balcony and created a relaxing garden space that will evoke much envy.

Zen Garden

A fall-back style option that works every time, Zen gardens have been popular for many years and the wonderful thing about these meditation wonders is that they can be created in any space, regardless of size or style.

Minimalism is the key in Zen gardens. Smooth white stones, natural coloured wooden decking, a square or rectangular sand pond – whether you create one in the ground, or have a large glass bowl as a sand pond, it’s all relative – a lush tree, and a bamboo trellis are all accessories that create a relaxing atmosphere, designed to absorb and disperse your stress.

Lighting

Turn your outdoor area into a comfortable work of art with the right lighting. Fairy lights in a garden or a strand of large bulbs strung through a pergola, can really add an atmosphere of comfort and trendiness to a small, large, or narrow space. An oversized lantern or a lamppost – reminiscent of London town in the 50s – makes for a cool leap back into a different time and space.

Outdoor chandeliers bring a sense of French period drama to any space. These stunning lights completely overhaul the ambience of any area and the right chandelier colour and style can certainly up the ante for outdoor dining and a leisurely experience. Homemade or shop-bought chandeliers are beautiful and the options are endless even if you prefer island living as opposed to opulence.

If you live in the concrete jungle and have a minuscule outdoor space – between two buildings – to call your own, a string of lights can transform any face-brick or concrete façade into a charming and comfortable zone. Escape to your almost-perfectly lit getaway, and add some greenery for that tropical effect.

Greenery

Add value and allure to your outdoor space with manicured greenery such as wall planters; large stylish pots complete with lush trees, and smaller pots with hardy flowers to add a burst of colour. Gardening has always been considered therapeutic so if you have some, add fairy lights to the greenery and your space is already transformed. If you have the space, include a slender bench for candles and your gardening accessories such as watering cans, gardening gloves and a sun hat.

Patio Blinds or Shades

Do you want more privacy on your patio area? Enhance your outdoor space with classic patio blinds and shades, which add a stylish air to your entertainment area, and give you the option of welcoming or shutting out the world.

Retractable patio blinds are temporary fixtures that allow you to have the best of both with an outdoor covered patio. Available in various styles, patio blinds and shades can be customised to suit your patio size and décor preferences.

Patio Furniture

Let your imagination fly! Patio furniture is no longer limited to white plastic chairs and a wobbly table that blows away in the wind. There are so many stunning outdoor furniture options that include sofas, small dining tables and an array of matching accessories to complement your space.

Narrow spaces simply require a couple of quirky chairs or stools, alongside some lights and plants, to give a charming air of comfort. Larger spaces allow for a variety of options such as wicker sofas and swing chairs with scatter cushions to take home improvement to a completely new level.

There are so many options available for you to transform your outdoor area. Don’t stare at your sad and empty outdoor space in utter despair. These forgotten spaces have so much potential and scream for attention. Unleash your inner interior decorator and watch your friends turn green with envy, and then copy you.

]]>http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/09/16/6-flattering-ways-transform-outdoor-area/feed/0As The Leaves Change: The Fall Patio Experiencehttp://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/09/07/leaves-change-autumnal-patio-experience/
http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/09/07/leaves-change-autumnal-patio-experience/#commentsMon, 08 Sep 2014 01:08:42 +0000http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/?p=1130As the weather changes and autumn approaches, the chill in the air can bring with it a chill of sadness – your days of patio living are fading with the summer light. It doesn’t have to be that way, though; … Continue reading →

]]>As the weather changes and autumn approaches, the chill in the air can bring with it a chill of sadness – your days of patio living are fading with the summer light. It doesn’t have to be that way, though; there are plenty of ways to ensure that you can spend just as much time in your beautiful outdoor space even as the seasons change. With just a few touches here and there, you can ensure that it’s easy to curl up with a cup of coffee or tea and watch the changing leaves, eat comforting meals where only a few months before you were grilling fresh summer veggies, or simply retire to your patio with a glass of good wine and your best friends. Patio living can extend your days and nights of enjoying the beauty of nature, as well as the beautiful space you’ve constructed for yourself. Sit back on your Velago sectional lounge, relax, and get ready to enjoy fall as much as you’ve enjoyed this summer.

All The Little Details

What makes patio living so wonderful is the way it puts you into the heart of the world while still allowing you to stay in your own beautiful home. By changing your patio to reflect the seasons, you’ll enjoy your private oasis even more, and a few small details make a world of difference. Depending on where you live, autumn nights can be chilly, so an outdoor heater is a good way to make the most of the season. Plug-in models are now cheap, reliable, and safe to use, while still spreading a warm glow over your patio – look for an adjustable, weather-safe model for maximum usage value. You’ll also want to prepare for the weather, which means investing in an umbrella or other awning if you haven’t done so yet. (There’s few things more relaxing than staying warm and dry while the soft fall rain pitter-patters around you.) If you like gardening, autumn-blooming flowers and bushes with dramatic autumn foliage are a good bet for your patio, although evergreens (especially dwarf varieties) will also remain seasonal and beautiful in winter. Other little decorating touches – pumpkins and other gourds, or bursts of autumnal colour – will give you an inviting space you can’t wait to spend time in .

Preparing For The Season

You’ve heard of spring cleaning – not try the fall variety! Spilled liquids can easily be wiped off of our cushions, but you’ll want to make sure that you’ve treated any marks which have appeared. (If the water-repellant coating is breaking time, simply re-apply it before fall sets in.) You’ll also want to clean your patio set by simply vacuuming and wiping them off with a soft, damp cloth. This is a good time to ensure that your home insurance is up to date and covers everything you assume it does; for many people, home contents insurance is the right option for their peace of mind. Making an investment in a beautiful space is much easier when you know that you have everything covered, so set your mind at ease and read through the small print on your insurance papers. Finally, prepare the cover you’ll use when the season is over so that you can put your beautiful furniture away to wait for the end of winter.

Make The Most Of It All

Summer may get all the attention when it comes to leisurely get-togethers, but autumn is a wonderful time for everything from barbecues to dinner parties. Throughout September, the lingering warmth and clear skies make for wonderful casual parties and barbecues; you might find that the mild weather allows you to enjoy them even more! With a good outdoor heater you can also impress and delight your friends and family by inviting them to an al fresco dinner party, complete with candle lanterns. Of course, you’ll also want to enjoy your space in your free time, so make it easy to do so. A comfortable throw kept by the door will keep you cozy, and a travel mug will let you sip something warm without worrying that it will cool off, or that you’ll drop and break the mug. Fall is coming, and the leaves are changing, but there’s no reason to be melancholy when you can enjoy your space for months to come.

]]>http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/09/07/leaves-change-autumnal-patio-experience/feed/0Why Toronto Condo Balconies lack nice Patio Furniturehttp://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/07/13/toronto-condo-balconies-lack-nice-patio-furniture/
http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/07/13/toronto-condo-balconies-lack-nice-patio-furniture/#commentsSun, 13 Jul 2014 19:14:15 +0000http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/?p=1118So you bought yourself that snazzy downtown condo. Summer is knocking on the door and you are thinking about getting some modern outdoor furniture. Good inspiration is hard to find. In most newer Toronto condo developments you hardly see an … Continue reading →

]]>So you bought yourself that snazzy downtown condo. Summer is knocking on the door and you are thinking about getting some modern outdoor furniture. Good inspiration is hard to find. In most newer Toronto condo developments you hardly see an furniture on the balconies at all. If you find any, it is so outdated or cheap looking that you shake your head in disbelief.

But lets be aware of some facts here: A whole pile of apartments in the city are owned by investors and tenanted. Most tenants see these dwellings as temporary residence and the last thing they would think about is buying designer patio furniture. In addition, most condominiums in Toronto are so close to the Gardiner, that it feels like the cars are driving right on your patio. The noise level is not exactly pleasant. The strong winds in the higher up units are also not contributing to an enjoyable patio experience.

Another factor is the size of the balconies in most modern condo units. You can barely turn around, let alone trying to fit a comfortable lounger or conversation set on there. If you didn’t sign up for a $1m plus penthouse, the sole option is usually a bistro set. Velago sells the wicker bistro set, which is a great choice for smaller outdoor spaces. The contemporary style goes well with this type of building.

My hope would be that more condo owners care and put something nice and comfortable on their patio. The enjoyment factor is so much higher! Lets give it some time, most developments are still very new and good things need time to grow.

]]>http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/07/13/toronto-condo-balconies-lack-nice-patio-furniture/feed/2Toronto Modern Outdoor Furniture Contest – Win 2 Adirondack Chairshttp://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/06/01/toronto-modern-outdoor-furniture-contest-win-2-adirondack-chairs/
http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/06/01/toronto-modern-outdoor-furniture-contest-win-2-adirondack-chairs/#commentsSun, 01 Jun 2014 18:12:55 +0000http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/?p=1111Win 2 poly wood muskoka chairs, or a $480 voucher on modern outdoor furniture by Velago. You want to enjoy the summer at its fullest. An Adirondack chair or two will come in handy! Tell us a funny, memorable or … Continue reading →

You want to enjoy the summer at its fullest. An Adirondack chair or two will come in handy!

Tell us a funny, memorable or touching story about a patio chair. Was it playing at the beach, going to the cottage or just hanging out at home enjoying the amazing weather and great outdoors. We want to know.

Participants in Canada can leave a comment to this blog post describing a memorable patio experience or just tell us what happened the last time you were actually on a patio. We will randomly draw a winner every 45 days.

Participation is possible in every draw, but you may only submit one comment per 45-day period. The winners will receive a $480 voucher for 2 Adirondack chairs by velago.ca or other patio furniture. Even though not a requirement for participation, we appreciate your tags and bookmarks!

]]>http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/06/01/toronto-modern-outdoor-furniture-contest-win-2-adirondack-chairs/feed/160Flattering Patio Designs for Small Gardenshttp://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/05/30/flattering-patio-designs-small-gardens/
http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/05/30/flattering-patio-designs-small-gardens/#commentsFri, 30 May 2014 17:09:53 +0000http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/?p=1104Having a small garden needn’t limit your design aspirations when it comes to creating a beautiful outdoor area. A smaller space can make for a more intimate setting for social gatherings and can serve as your own little haven to … Continue reading →

]]>Having a small garden needn’t limit your design aspirations when it comes to creating a beautiful outdoor area. A smaller space can make for a more intimate setting for social gatherings and can serve as your own little haven to enjoy quiet afternoons with a good book. What’s more, you will also find it infinitely cheaper and easier to decorate a smaller garden, allowing you to be more creative with your choice of furnishings.

Use your modest garden size to your advantage and take inspiration from some of these great patio design ideas.

Play with levels

Experiment with varying levels and steps in your garden as this will make a smaller area seem larger and more appealing. A great way of giving your small patio area added dimension is to create raised flower beds and build a pathway to run between them. If you use a wide border of decking to outline your planting beds, for example, these can double up as small seating areas since you can dip and raise the levels accordingly to create a number of benches for a compact and contemporary style.

Use symmetry

Small garden patios can work a symmetrical look to stunning effect. Applying perfect symmetry to a confined area makes a luxury statement in a way that would be lost on a long, open stretch of garden. Have a central pathway of decking running between the centre of two lounge chairs and two potted plants adjacent to one another. For a truly classic look, place tall trimmed bay trees side by side to create the look of an Italian villa terrace. Make sure you don’t clutter your outdoor area with too many different things either. Chose patio furniture that fits the space and does not over-crowd it. For example use an outdoor conversation set. This is sure to make your modest patio the ultimate garden party venue of choice!

Take shelter

Patios are usually designed to be very open-plan and sociable, but a patio area can be just as welcoming if it is slightly hidden from view. Building a patio at the very end of your garden creates an enchanting secret hideaway and makes a beautiful setting for intimate dinner parties that guests and visiting family will just adore. Lay down pretty stepping stones leading to your enclosed haven and keep your patio area sheltered using a gazebo or large open front shed.

However you choose to decorate your small patio area, ensure your efforts don’t go to waste by using ineffective tools. Whether you’re adding decking or building furniture for your garden area, ensure you use reliable tools of the trade. You can find great landscaping and measuring equipment on sites such as Anglia Tool Centre and all good DIY stores.

]]>http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/05/30/flattering-patio-designs-small-gardens/feed/0How Glass Patio Doors can Redefine Your Homehttp://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/05/13/glass-patio-doors-can-redefine-home/
http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/05/13/glass-patio-doors-can-redefine-home/#commentsTue, 13 May 2014 18:07:54 +0000http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/?p=1098The main attraction of having a patio is that is extends the inside of your home to the outdoors. This breaks down the obstruction between indoors and out, and during the warmer months of the year there is nothing better … Continue reading →

]]>The main attraction of having a patio is that is extends the inside of your home to the outdoors. This breaks down the obstruction between indoors and out, and during the warmer months of the year there is nothing better than relaxing on the patio either with a BBQ and some company, or just by yourself with a book. When done well, having a patio or outdoor area can really improve the look of your entire home and make it an appealing place to be. One fantastic way to fully break down the obstruction between indoor and out, as well as improve the look of your entire home, is to have glass patio doors installed.

Glass doors can bring a few advantages to the home. Firstly they can look fantastic as they bring the outdoors in, so when you are sat inside you will find yourself gazing out the window at your garden and its natural surroundings. In addition, glass doors leading out onto your patio will bring in a tremendous amount of natural light. This in itself has several advantages and can make a huge difference to your home. They are also great for when you are sat outside enjoying the sun, as you can open them up fully and make it easy to get in and out of the house. This is particularly helpful if you have friends round as it opens up your entire home and in effect gives you an extra room outdoors.

Patio Doors that Will Keep in Heat and Keep Noise Out

To get these installed in your house you will want to ensure that you use an established company. This way you can be sure that you will be getting high quality glass that will keep in heat and keep out noise when they are shut. You will also want a range of product types, and for this you will want to visit websites like FGC and other established glass curtain providers.

Having either folding or sliding glass patio doors will make a huge difference to both the inside and outside of your home. You will benefit from breaking down the barrier between the two to create a spacious, open feel. You will also benefit massively from the amount of natural light that you will get flowing through your home. Any homeowner that enjoys spending time outside will benefit massively from these doors, and they will improve the look of the entire home.

]]>http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/05/13/glass-patio-doors-can-redefine-home/feed/010 Tips for Improving Your Patiohttp://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/04/09/10-tips-improving-patio/
http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/04/09/10-tips-improving-patio/#commentsWed, 09 Apr 2014 19:18:59 +0000http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/?p=1087Are you currently looking to improve your patio or garden? Here are ten simple tips to really make the most of it: Give it a power clean First of all, make sure your patio slabs are as clean as they … Continue reading →

]]>Are you currently looking to improve your patio or garden? Here are ten simple tips to really make the most of it:

Give it a power clean

First of all, make sure your patio slabs are as clean as they can be! This may call for a professional power clean. Once you’ve given your patio a thorough cleanse, consider investing in a sealer. This will make hosing off your patio easier in the future.

Get landscaping

Once the patio itself is sorted, think outside the patio parameters and get creative with your garden landscaping. You can enhance your patio by enclosing it with beautiful flower beds or ensure that your adjoining lawn is luscious and sprawling.

Build a concrete wall seat

Surround your patio with practical seating whilst providing a barrier between your patio area and the rest of your garden. A wall seat is basically a low retaining wall which is built at seat height and designed with both comfort and style in mind. Or add a deep seating set from Velago for more comfort.

Buy baskets

Hanging baskets are a nice feature when dangling over your patio. Affix to the walls of your home and fill with the foliage of your choice. Oversized hanging baskets and floral spheres can add contemporary drama.

Make it musical

Add colourful wind chimes or other ornaments that make a delicate and relaxing sound in the breeze. Plus, set-up a speaker system so you can enjoy music whilst you’re eating al fresco. You can now get clever, camouflage sound systems which look like rocks and stones, ideal for hiding in your patio flower border.

Add a calming water feature

Your patio should be a soothing space on which to dine, sunbathe or sit and enjoy a good book. Enhance the relaxation of your patio with the addition of a calming water feature. There are many different styles and sizes of water features on the market, tailored to suit your garden. You might want a large-scale fountain? Or perhaps a gentle waterfall that trickles over stones?

Clean up your home front

No matter how much work you spend on your patio, if your home fascia isn’t up to scratch then time spent out on your garden patio is going to be tainted by its exterior imperfection. There are several things you can do to make sure your home is looking smart:

Start by checking any outer plumbing that needs attention, for example, sort out any hanging guttering

Add a lick of fresh paint to any shabby doors or window frames

Clean – or even upgrade – your windows.

Add a fire pit

Get ready for the summer season with a brick barbeque or fire pit. These can be built with bricks, boulders or flagstones – any stone material that compliments your patio flooring.

Create evening atmosphere with lighting

Increase the functionality of your garden with exterior lighting and soon you will be able to enjoy your patio both day and night. Solar lighting is the most popular form of patio lighting at the moment. You can opt for inbuilt up-lights on the floor or standing lamps which can be stood around your patio border. For a magical ambiance, opt for solar powered fairy lights which add a delicate twinkle of an evening.

Go for a covering trellis

Add a shady cover to your patio space with an open trellis roof made from wood. Provide extra coverage by growing a delicate vine overhead.

]]>http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/04/09/10-tips-improving-patio/feed/0Outdoor Furniture Ideas from the National Home Showhttp://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/03/23/outdoor-furniture-ideas-national-home-show/
http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/2014/03/23/outdoor-furniture-ideas-national-home-show/#commentsSun, 23 Mar 2014 22:19:56 +0000http://blog.velagopatiofurniture.ca/?p=1075Today is the last day of this year’s National Home Show in Toronto. Exhibitors have shown off their home goods and services for the last 10 days. More than 100,000 visitors came to admire interesting garden designs and furniture and … Continue reading →

]]>Today is the last day of this year’s National Home Show in Toronto. Exhibitors have shown off their home goods and services for the last 10 days. More than 100,000 visitors came to admire interesting garden designs and furniture and to purchase one or the other product for their house.

The first photo shows a super-modern landscape design based on nordic and native inspirations. A wooden cabana in teepee style hosts a stainless steel outdoor sofa set with blankets. Other great landscaping scenes were present at the show that had visitors in awe.

In terms of outdoor furniture, most of the Greater Toronto Area’s prominent retailers were present with a stand, displaying their newest styles. Starting with prestigious, Andrew Richard Designs once more reassured why they are the industry leader in this city. Their designs are not only well balanced, but find a new edge every time. The outdoor sectional shown is made with gray all-weather wicker and cushions in charcoal. The stainless steel legs round off the beautiful design. The price tag is just below $4500.

Another regular of the show, Insideout is not far. This year, their displays were more appealing to the masses, not so much the distinguished design-lover. With traditional wrought iron tables and chairs they definitely had some of the older folks interested. The resin wicker furniture was nice and certainly comfortable. The sectional set shown came in the dark brown wicker with creme cushions. A great colour scheme that seems to work for most people. Insideout offers lots of choices with fabrics and materials, if not necessarily cutting edge. What I really liked was the square shape cantilever umbrella for $1099. Side post umbrellas are just fantastic and look so chic.

The other big name present was Southport. The retailer from Vaughan showed off a cool gazebo with an awning-like cover. Spanning over a large patio area with ease, looking elegant at the same time. Their sectional patio set came with the turkoise cushions which made it stand out from the competition. A bright colour that somehow signifies summer to me. Is it because it reminds me of the ocean in the Caribbean? Maybe. In any case, looks beautiful.

Some of the price tags can be a big shocking, even with the usual discounts offered during the show. The smart buyer has a look around to see where the best deal can be found. Velago Patio Furniture is well known in Toronto for offering high quality furniture at affordable prices. While often times, they do not offer as many options to customize, the basic version of a specific patio set will come at a much more competitive rate and a few different cushion colours are available as well.